tkd_grant's Full Review: Move Along by The All-American Rejects
Compared to its predecessor, The All-American Rejects’ sophomore album Move Along is miles ahead in terms of lyrical content as well as just the overall “feel” of the album. While still a good album, their debut, self-titled album lacked a range of lyrical content, resting upon regurgitated words about the effects of a lost love. Move Along proves that The All-American Rejects have matured as a musical group; through the uplifting lyrical content and flawless vocals courtesy of Tyson Ritter, Move Along is one of those “feel good” albums everyone should have in their collection.
The album kicks off with the lead-single Dirty Little Secret, possibly the catchiest song ever released by the band. With its light yet completely infectious chorus, the song seems to be just a fun, playful track to be enjoyed by all (which it is); but to anyone that actually has a “dirty little secret,” this track means much more. Move Along, the album’s second single opens with the sound of loud, pulsating drums but then quickly converts to a catchy guitar riff. The catchy chorus and lyrical content are what make this song special:
When all you got to keep is strong
Move along, move along like I know you do
And even when your hope is gone
Move along, move along just to make it through
The addition of a children’s choir toward the end gives the song an even more “real” feeling. My personal favorite track on Move Along is Dance Inside. The song begins sounding pretty light and fluffy, but Tyson Ritter’s soft, flawless vocals save the song from being anything cheesy or gag-worthy. As well as just about everyone track on the album, the bridge and chorus on Dance Inside are likely to get stuck in your head for days at a time.
Tyson Ritter's vocals have clearly improved since making the first album. Can't Take It and It Ends Tonight are prime examples of Ritter's vocal perfection on Move Along; if you weren't a fan before, you will be now. Both being slower tracks, Tyson easily shows his amazing range and unique tone. With an accompanying piano and violin, Can't Take It has a completely unique feel from the rest of the album... I'm not sure why but it reminds me of being on a ship (?)... but despite my weird imagination, it's another one of my favorites. It Ends Tonight not only contains perfect vocals but it clearly exemplifies the band's improvement in the lyrical department:
The walls start breathing
My mind's unweaving
Maybe it’s best you leave me alone.
A weight is lifted
On this evening
I give the final blow.
Compared to the rest of the album, Night Drive and Top of the World have a "darker" tone, which is achieved through the subject matter and heavier production. "Finding a day / Don't wanna be you / When the top of the world / Falls on you". It’s clear that the band wanted to prove they can “rock,” and while I feel that they’re best-suited for their mid-tempo catchy tunes, these songs are totally listen-able (and catchy as well).
Final Thoughts
Overall, Move Along is definitely one of my favorite albums of the moment (and perhaps of all time?). I absolutely love it. Ritter's flawless and catchy vocals make for some great karaoke attempts while driving in the car, and the lyrical content is sure to put you in a better mood. Personally I can't find any true flaws in the album. Therefore, I highly recommend you give this album a listen. You won't regret it.
Track Listing:
01. Dirty Little Secret
02. Stab My Back
03. Move Along
04. It Ends Tonight
05. Change Your Mind
06. Night Drive
07. 11:11 PM
08. Dance Inside
09. Top Of The World
10. Straitjacket Feeling
11. I'm Waiting
12. Can't Take It
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